"No matter how full a reservoir of maxims one may possess, and no matter how good one's sentiments may be, if one has not taken advantage of every concrete opportunity to act, one's character may remain entirely unaffected for the better"

This quote by William James emphasizes the significance of acting in order to develop one's character. He suggests that having good intentions and also a storage tank of adages is insufficient to enhance one's character. Rather, one should benefit from every possibility to act in order to make a favorable distinction in their character. This can imply acting in small methods, such as aiding a friend in demand or volunteering in the community. It could also suggest acting in bigger means, such as seeking a job that aligns with one's worths or deciding on a concern that is important to them. Eventually, James is suggesting that doing something about it is the only means to truly develop one's personality.